Sumpah

Sumpah is an Indonesian and Malay term that denotes an oath or solemn vow. The word is used across Indonesian, Malay, and related languages to describe a formal pledge in which a person commits to tell the truth, uphold duties, or fulfill a responsibility, often in a setting governed by law, government, or religious practice.

In practice, a sumpah is typically administered before an authorized official or institution, such as a judge, a civil service authority, or a religious leader. It is commonly required when assuming an office, testifying in court, or certifying the truthfulness of a statement or document. The act may involve invoking divine witness or appealing to a sacred text, reflecting the religiously infused norms of many communities where the oath is taken.

Legal and social implications accompany a sumpah. A false oath is generally known as sumpah palsu (perjury) in many jurisdictions and can carry civil, administrative, or criminal consequences. Even when not legally required, a sumpah carries a weight of personal and communal obligation, signaling seriousness and accountability.

Cultural contexts vary, but the core function remains consistent: to formalize a commitment and establish trust. The term is widely used in Indonesia and Malaysia, as well as in other Malay-speaking contexts, and appears in notable historical examples such as the Sumpah Pemuda (Youth Pledge) of 1928, which signified a collective vow toward national unity. Related concepts include janji (promise), which is generally less formal and not sworn under oath.